Our goal is to provide support, education and encouragement for domestic abuse victims who have fled to a shelter or group home for safety. All of whom are trying to help themselves out of a violent, hurtful situation by receiving counseling, job training, financial planning and life skills.

A Heroic Journey

Friends & Helpers was started in 1992 in Southern California by our Founder who was a victim of domestic violence. Abuse can strike anyone, anywhere. Those closest to them often have no idea what they are going through. Abuse destroys self esteem and self worth. It's emotional, physical and mental damage to one's health can be debilitating and deadly.

Fortunately, our Founder was able to escape and seek refuge where she received counseling, food and protection. This safe foundation gave her the tools to heal and rebuild her life.

"The shelter saved my life. It was a safe haven for me when I had no where else to go. Most individuals who flee don't have anything and rely on these shelters for basic necessities."

Friends & Helpers was created to support the families within our local shelters. We support our centers throughout the entire year. Our community outreach includes our Back to School and Adopt A Family Holiday Program. We assemble school supplies, snack bags, hygiene items and holiday gifts as a way to provide the families with items we often take for granted and they desperately need all year round. This is made possible by your donations, volunteer hours and company sponsorships.

Please leave your name and email below if you'd like to be included on our newsletter about upcoming events.

None of this would be possible without you, our volunteers! We appreciate all of your time and effort.

Registration: There will be a sign-in table at our events so volunteers do not need to register ahead of time.

Age Limit: We welcome everyone who wants to volunteer and give back to those in need. We ask that children under the age of 16 come accompanied by an adult.

Community Service: We are certified for community service hours. Please make sure to bring your Community Service Form to the event and we will have signature available upon completion of hours.

Back to School

Our goal with our Back to School Program is to provide as many backpacks, school supplies and snack packs to the students in our shelters. We think it is vital that they have something brand new that they can call their own and be proud of at school. Our mission is to help the students stay engaged in their education and feel excited about going to school.

Check back in the summer of 2018 to learn more.

Adopt A Backpack

Donate $25 to provide a backpack full of school supplies for students of every age who live in centers or shelters. Our objective is to provide each student with the supplies they need to start the school year.

Adopt A Snack Bag

Donate $10 to provide a snack pack full of nonperishable snacks for students of every age who live in centers or shelters. Many students gain a sense of belonging by bringing our snack bag to school. It helps them feel comfortable with their peers and helps them stay focused in school.